A-A Island Blog

Ferry to Woods Hole Offers Nascent Scientists Access to the Best Spots

For America’s aspiring marine scientists, Woods Hole has long been considered to be the Holy Grail. After all, its home to the highly respected Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and much more. So if you are visiting Martha’s Vineyard in the weeks to come, we’d recommend taking the ferry to Woods Hole.

The year-round auto and passenger ferry to Woods Hole is run by a group known as the Steamship Authority. Passengers board the vessel in Vineyard Haven and the ride tends to take approximately 60 minutes one way. During the late winter and early spring, daily service typically starts at 6 a.m. and ends around 10:30 p.m. Thus, you’ll want to plan your visit to the area’s marine based attractions accordingly.

Most of the popular attractions, like the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, tend to open between 10 and 11 a.m. and close in the afternoon. Therefore, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy breakfast or dinner at one of Woods Hole’s eateries. One year round place to consider in that regard is the Fishmonger Cafe. Located on Water Street, it generally opens daily for breakfast at 7 a.m. and closes around 10 p.m.

The Steamship Authority traditionally bases their automobile fees on the length of the vehicle. In general, vehicles 17 feet long or smaller ride for less than those that exceed 17 feet. We should also mention that the vehicle fee does not include driver or passenger admissions. They must be purchased separately.

Furthermore, if you plan on taking your rental car aboard the ferry to Woods Hole, advance reservations are strongly recommended. However, they are not required unless you plan on traveling during what’s known as the ferry’s reservation only period.

To learn more about securing a Martha’s Vineyard rental car and taking the ferry to Woods Hole, please contact us at (800) 627-6333. We are conveniently located a short walk away from the Vineyard Haven dock and offer after hours pick-up service with advance notice.